Vol. 2, Issue 2, Part A (2020)

In the Abagusii community, marriage is a process which not only involves a one day event but an event which prolongs for days until it is consummated. Each and every step is meant to contribute to the instilling of moral values to ensure marriage retains its permanence and that once it is entered upon separation is almost an impossible. In particular the wearing of the anklets by a married woman and the vows associated with it ensured faithfulness in marriage. The breaking of the marriage vows by engaging in adultery by either of the partners resulted to a condition referred to as “Amasangia” which if left unattended could lead to death of the offender or vice versa. Therefore, divorce or separation and whatever the results out of it became non-existence. The institution of marriage was jealously guarded by the taboos attached it. This study focused on the process undertaken towards the Abagusii traditional marriage, analyzing important stages with emphasis of the wearing of anklets by the bride. The research also interrogated the role of “Amasangia” in preserving the community moral values related to the institution of marriage. Finally, this study suggests ways of conserving community moral values, through the process of inculturation. This will be of great significance in the present Abagusii society which has embraced the Christian faith, while discarding traditional practices which helped conserve community moral values.